November 23, 1932 ~ February 26, 2017
Richard E. Orrell, Sr., 84, Marion, went to be with the Lord at 4:43 a.m. on Sunday, February 26, 2017, at Marion General Hospital. He was born in New York City, New York, to the late Hugh and Helen (Wilson) Orrell. He married Geraldine “Jeri” Miller on January 9, 1960, and she survives.
Richard was a graduate of Marion High School and Castle Heights Military Academy. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served during the Korean War. Following his military service, he worked as a tool and die journeyman at General Motors and retired after 42 years. He was a member of the American Legion, Jaycees, First United Methodist Church, United Methodist Men, Marion Exchange Club, and an officer/life member of the Marion Elks Country Club Lodge 195. One of Richard’s favorite pastimes was playing the drums, professionally at one point. He was a very dedicated husband, father, and grandfather. Just as our Father in Heaven, Richard instilled the value of unconditional love and personal sacrifice for his family and friends.
Survivors include his loving wife, Jeri; children, Deborah Ann (Gordon “Skip”) Johnson, Lutz, Florida, Charles Thomas (Ann Marie) Miller V, Grand Rapids, Michigan, Richard E. (Dedra) Orrell Jr., Sweetser, and Dr. James M. (Anna) Orrell, Marion; grandchildren, Lauren (Bradley) Hayden, Richard E. “Trey” Orrell III, Riley Orrell, Sophia Orrell, Meghan Orrell, and Zoe Orrell; sister, Alys (Joe) Sirk, Angola; and brother-in-law, Richard (Nancy) Seyferth, Bolivia, North Carolina.
In addition to his parents, preceding him in death was his granddaughter, Miranda Orrell.
Family and friends may call from 4-8 p.m. on Friday, March 3, 2017, at Needham-Storey-Wampner Funeral Service, North Chapel, 1341 N. Baldwin Ave., Marion, IN.
Services to celebrate Richard’s life will be at 11 a.m. on Saturday, March 4, 2017, at First UMC, 624 S. Adams St., Marion, with Rev. Colleen Harden officiating. Burial will follow at Grant Memorial Park.
Memorial contributions may be directed to First UMC, 624 S. Adams St., Marion, IN 46953.
Online condolences may be made at www.nswcares.com.